The nurse is caring for a client with a history of liver cirrhosis. Which complication should the nurse monitor for?

Choice A reason: Early ambulation prevents stasis but is contraindicated in acute deep vein thrombosis, as it risks dislodging the clot, causing pulmonary embolism. Leg elevation reduces swelling and promotes venous return, making it the priority intervention to manage acute DVT safely.

Choice B reason: Warm compresses may increase blood flow but are not standard for deep vein thrombosis, as they risk clot dislodgement. Leg elevation reduces edema and venous pressure, improving circulation without mobilizing the clot, making it the preferred intervention for DVT management.

Choice C reason: Restricting fluid intake is inappropriate, as hydration prevents blood viscosity increases that exacerbate deep vein thrombosis. Leg elevation directly reduces swelling and promotes venous return, addressing the primary issue of venous stasis, making it the priority over fluid restriction.

Choice D reason: Elevating the affected leg reduces edema and venous pressure in deep vein thrombosis by promoting venous return to the heart. This decreases clot propagation risk and alleviates pain, making it a key intervention to manage acute DVT effectively and prevent complications.

Choice A reason: Ascites, fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity, is a common complication of liver cirrhosis due to portal hypertension and hypoalbuminemia. It increases infection risk and discomfort, making it the priority to monitor, as early detection guides diuretic therapy and paracentesis.

Choice B reason: Peripheral neuropathy is not a primary cirrhosis complication, though it may occur in alcoholic liver disease. Ascites is more common, resulting from portal hypertension, making it the priority to monitor, as it directly reflects liver dysfunction and requires urgent management.

Choice C reason: Pulmonary edema is associated with heart failure, not cirrhosis. Ascites is a hallmark of cirrhosis, caused by portal hypertension and low albumin, making it the priority complication to monitor, as it indicates worsening liver function and requires immediate intervention.

Choice D reason: Kidney stones are unrelated to cirrhosis, which primarily causes ascites due to portal hypertension. Monitoring ascites is critical, as it reflects liver decompensation, increasing risks like spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, making it the priority over unrelated renal conditions.